RLST 105 Study Guide - Comprehensive Midterm Guide: East India Company, Pandava, Vedas

• School: Towson University
• Department: Religious Studies
• Course: RLST 105
• Professor: Emily Bailey

Document Summary

About 15% of the religious population of the world. No centralized text, leader figure, or start date. Hinduism is an umbrella term because it includes many different religious beliefs, traditions, and practices. Term was created in 19th century (colonialism, hindu reformers) Developed from harappa culture in 2500 bce (before common era), the indus valley. Civilization 2500-1500 bce, and the indo-european (aryan) 1500bce (came from the indo-european) texts/scriptures called vedas, typically written in. Vedas typically explained how to complete certain rituals. Brahma: creator, creates sky, earth, light etc. Shiva: destroyer, destroys all that has been created. After shiva destroys all creation, the cycle of time starts again, with vishnu creating. All three of these entities are holy and seen as god or part of god. Lotus flower symbolizes rebirth or a fresh start brahmans or brahmins. A holy figure for many common problems such as (fertility, farming food, education, etc. ) that the individuals can pray to or ask for help.